Germany Car Hire

Car rental in Germany can be organised at major airports and larger train stations. The major international companies have bases here, including Avis, Hertz, Budget, Alamo, Sixt and Europcar.

To find Germany’s cheapest car hire rates, compare and book at least 14 days before you travel and collect your car at the airport. You’ll need to have your passport and driving licence with you when you pick up your vehicle, and, in some cases, your return flight ticket.

Most cars come with manual transmission, though you can get a decent deal on an automatic if you search and compare car-rental rates well in advance.

Even the cheapest car rentals in Germany usually include unlimited mileage, and some companies also offer one-way rentals at no extra cost.

Before you drive away, you should check that you have all the necessary documents and equipment. A warning triangle, first aid kit and parking disc are mandatory, as is a green insurance certificate. Check whether your car requires benzin (petrol) or diesel.

Roads throughout Germany are well maintained and easy to navigate – just remember not to pass anyone on the right on the Autobahn, it’s actually illegal. Major tourist attractions are always signalled on motorway signs, much like in the UK.

One of the main benefits of booking cheap car hire in Germany is having the freedom to explore parts of the country you would otherwise have missed. This is particularly true when it comes to stretches of scenic road that are only accessible by car.

These ‘themed roads’, which are a little like Germany’s version of Route 66, can take you through picturesque Bavarian villages, past castles and to the foothills of the Alps and can only be enjoyed by those sitting in a car or coach.

1. Contrary to popular belief, large stretches of Germany’s Autobahn do have enforced speed limits, often denoted on a round white sign circled in red.
2. Petrol stations and rest stops can be few and far between on certain stretches of the Autobahn, so make sure you have plenty of fuel and have been to the loo before you set off!
3. Check with your hotel to see if they have car parking prior to arrival; some city-centre hotels direct guests to nearby public multi-storey car parks if they don’t have on-site spaces.

Fair fuel policy

A fair fuel policy (also known as full-to-full or same-to-same) means you’ll only pay for the fuel you use. All car rental deals compared on TravelSupermarket come with a fair fuel policy, so you can book your hire car safe in the knowledge there will be no nasty surprises at drop-off. More information on TravelSupermarket’s commitment to fair fuel policies can be found here.

No hidden fees

All rental deals compared on TravelSupermarket include mandatory fees (for example, one-way and young driver surcharges) in your rental quote at the time of booking, meaning you’ll know the full price of your car hire upfront.